Grand Designs - New

Grand Designs - Series 10, Episode 03

Episode Synopsis

Episode 03Design-mad couple Mary Martin and Carl Turner attempt to build something never seen before amongst the traditional Victorian terraces of Brixton - a home that resembles a giant stack of glass cubes.

Minimalism-obsessed Mary and her architect partner Carl have spent years renovating their homes to be as simple to live in as possible. But this project is bigger and more ambitious than anything they've taken on before. On the outside they want their startling glass structure to become an instant South London landmark. On the inside, Mary wants a Zen retreat from the noise and chaos of London.

But to pull it off is going to push their finances to the limit. In order to save money, Carl decides he has to take on as many of the specialist build jobs as he can. The results are hair-raising as the cranes and steel frames hit the narrow plot - and Carl's precise designs are in real jeopardy.

By the time the glass cladding arrives, it is decision time and Carl and Mary have to decide what is more important - cutting costs or fulfilling their vision and getting the house built properly.

But Carl's biggest test lies ahead when it comes to finishing the minimalist interior. The tiniest error in the detailing could ruin all the blood, sweat and tears he's put into building this urban sanctuary, not to mention the backlash from Mary if there's a hint of clutter.